Asbury Hills History

In 1961, Asbury Hills opened as the South Carolina Methodist Camp which was later changed to the SC United Methodist Camp. In the early 1980s the name was changed to Asbury Hills in honor of Francis Asbury, one of the first two bishops of the Methodist Church. He rode a horse from church to church throughout the colonies in the late 18th century. On at least one such trip, Asbury wrote in his journal about hearing the headwaters of Matthews Creek, a creek that runs through the camp property.

Nestled in the northwestern corner of South Carolina at the Blue Ridge Escarpment is a part of creation that has seen thousands enjoy outdoor ministry since the summer of 1961. In the beginning of Asbury Hill's ministry, twenty youth cabins were built, a large dining center was constructed, a health center and a lodge for retreat guests were added to help serve campers and guests. Since the early 1960's a few other structures have been built, but mostly the camp has operated with these original buildings.

After almost fifty years of joyful children and youth in the original cabins, the block walls themselves reflect the laughter! But they also reflect fifty years of use. While they have served well, they needed to be replaced.

So in November 2008, the first bulldozers rolled onto the property, and the new construction renovation began. For the next 7 months, the construction began by the renovating of the dining hall, Rice Lodge, Batson Lodge and Creekside Lodge. By the first of 2009, construction on the 12 new cabins began. All was completed by the first of June 2009 in time for the Dedication service. To see the progression of the construction check out the construction blog.

One significant update to the new cabins is the inclusion of bathrooms and showers. Until now, campers have had to walk outside their cabins at night to go to the bathrooms. This upgrade will greatly increase safety for campers. Some of the new cabins and bathroom areas are handicapped accessible allowing us to better welcome all of God's children.

In 2007, the 1,892-acre Asbury Hills Camp and Retreat Center became protected by a conservation easement, which allows the Center to continue to operate but will protect the property forever from harmful development. By a partnership with the South Carolina Chapter of The Nature Conservancy, Natureland Trust, Asbury Hills will be able to commit to protecting God's creation and setting aside space for people to come for birth, growth and renewal for present and future generations.

For almost fifty years, Asbury Hills Camp and Retreat Center has played a major role in the faith development of thousands of children, youth and adults. Since its founding, over 75,000 people have participated in either summer camp events, week-end retreats, church picnics, a day away for a meeting, or just a hike in the beautiful creation of the mountains. Asbury Hills has hosted members of almost every United Methodist Church in South Carolina as well as many other groups from various denominations.